Pin Parvati Pass Expedition: A Thrilling Crossover in the Himalayas
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About the Tour
The Pin Parvati Pass Expedition is one of the most challenging and rewarding treks in the Indian Himalayas, connecting the lush green Parvati Valley in Himachal Pradesh to the cold, arid desert of Spiti Valley. At an altitude of 5,319 meters (17,451 feet), the trek offers breathtaking landscapes, dense forests, alpine meadows, glaciers, and barren mountains.
This 110 km trek tests endurance, making it ideal for seasoned trekkers and adventure seekers looking for a raw Himalayan experience. The journey includes river crossings, steep ascents, and a transition from green to stark desert terrain, providing an unparalleled contrast in landscapes.
Tour Description
- Duration: 9 to 11 days
- Route: Starts from Kullu-Manali’s Parvati Valley and ends in Spiti’s Pin Valley
- Difficulty Level: Challenging
- Best Time to Visit: June to September
- Key Highlights:
- Lush green meadows of Tunda Bhuj and Odi Thach
- Hot springs at Kheerganga for relaxation
- Moraines and glaciers leading up to the Pin Parvati Pass
- The stark beauty of Spiti Valley post-crossover
The trek provides a perfect blend of adventure, solitude, and spirituality, making it a bucket-list trek for serious adventurers.
Tour Challenges
- Extreme altitude gain with steep ascents and descents.
- Treacherous river crossings, especially at Parvati and Pin Rivers.
- Glacier walks and unpredictable weather near the pass.
- Remote terrain with no access to modern facilities.
- High risk of altitude sickness due to rapid elevation gain.
Tour Facilities
- Experienced trek leaders and local guides for navigation.
- Mules and porters for luggage transportation.
- Camping gear including tents, sleeping bags, and mats.
- Medical support with oxygen cylinders and first-aid kits.
- Well-planned meals for high-altitude trekking.
Tour Amenities
- Sturdy alpine tents with proper insulation.
- Freshly prepared meals to maintain energy levels.
- Mess tents and portable toilet tents.
- Dedicated support team for logistics and safety.
Who Can Participate?
- Age Limit: 18+ years
- Fitness Requirements:
- Able to trek 8-12 km daily in high-altitude terrain.
- Prior high-altitude trek experience required.
- Not suitable for individuals with heart or respiratory issues.
How to Reach
- Meeting Point: Manali, Himachal Pradesh.
- Nearest Airport: Bhuntar Airport (50 km from Manali).
- Nearest Railway Station: Chandigarh Railway Station (310 km from Manali).
- By Road: Manali is accessible via Delhi, Chandigarh, and Shimla by bus or taxi.
Temperature and Weather
- Summer (June-Sept):
- Daytime: 10°C to 20°C
- Nighttime: -5°C to 5°C
Latitude and Longitude
- Latitude: 32.0824° N
- Longitude: 77.6434° E
FAQs
- 1. How difficult is the Pin Parvati Pass Expedition?
This is a difficult trek, requiring high fitness and prior experience. - 2. What is the best time to do this expedition?
June to September for stable weather and clear trails. - 3. Is altitude sickness common?
Yes. Proper acclimatization and hydration are necessary. - 4. Will there be network connectivity?
No, after Kheerganga until Kaza.
Key Highlights
- Crossover trek from lush greenery to barren Spiti desert.
- High-altitude glacial lakes and hot springs.
- Extreme adventure and Himalayan wilderness.
Embark on the Pin Parvati Pass expedition for the ultimate Himalayan challenge!
Included/Exclude
Inclusions in the Tour Package
- Accommodation: Camps (Sharing Camp for two people), Home Stay.
- Guides & Support Staff: Qualified & experienced Trek Leader, Guide, and Support staff to assist trekkers.
- Sleeping Gear: Sleeping Bags.
- Meals: All meals during the trek (Breakfast, Packed Lunch, and Dinner – only vegetarian).
- Permits & Fees: Trekking Permits and Forest Fees.
- Trekking Equipment: Tent, Mattress, Sleeping Bag, Dining & Kitchen Tent, Toilet Tent, Cooking Utensils, and Crampons (if required).
- Medical Assistance: First aid medical kits and oxygen cylinder.
- Guide & Support Staff Expenses: Guide Allowances, Food, and Stay.
- Potters: Potters will carry only trekking equipment.
- Potter's Expenses: Allowances, Food, and Stay.
- Kitchen Staff: Included for cooking and meal preparation.
- Kitchen Staff Expenses: Allowances, Food, and Stay.
- Cook: Responsible for preparing meals.
- Cook's Expenses: Allowances, Food, and Stay.
- Transportation: As per the trek itinerary.
Exclusions in the Tour Package
- Any other facilities that are not mentioned in the inclusions.
- Potters for carrying your personal luggage.
- Extra meals like lunch during the journey by cab and stay at hotels (lunch is only provided during the trek).
- Personal expenses such as Water Bottles, Laundry, Phone Calls, etc.
- Insurance.
- Gaiters.
- Anything not specifically mentioned under "Inclusions."
Tour Amenities
Certified Trek Leader
Hassle-Free Permits
Warm Meals, Always
Itinerary
Overview
Drive Distance: 95 km (approx. 4 hours)
Trek Distance: 9 km (approx. 4-5 hours)
Starting Altitude: 2,050 meters / 6,726 feet at Manali
Ending Altitude: 2,960 meters / 9,711 feet at Kheerganga
Detailed Plan
- Depart from Manali early morning, driving through scenic routes to reach Barshaini, the trek's starting point.
- Begin the trek to Kheerganga, renowned for its natural hot springs and picturesque meadows.
- Overnight stay in tents at Kheerganga.
Overview
Trek Distance: 12 km (approx. 5-6 hours)
Altitude Gain: 3,285 meters / 10,778 feet at Tunda Bhuj
Detailed Plan
- Trek through dense forests of oak and rhododendron, crossing several streams.
- Arrive at Tunda Bhuj, characterized by expansive meadows dotted with wildflowers.
- Overnight stay in tents.
Overview
Trek Distance: 6 km (approx. 4-5 hours)
Altitude Gain: 3,560 meters / 11,680 feet at Thakur Kuan
Detailed Plan
- Continue the ascent, navigating rocky terrains and river crossings.
- Reach Thakur Kuan, a serene campsite surrounded by towering peaks.
- Overnight stay in tents.
Overview
Trek Distance: 10 km (approx. 5-6 hours)
Altitude Gain: 3,800 meters / 12,467 feet at Odi Thach
Detailed Plan
- Trek through the picturesque meadows of Odi Thach, with the Parvati River accompanying the trail.
- The area is known for its unique rock formations and panoramic views.
- Overnight stay in tents.
Overview
Trek Distance: 9 km (approx. 6-7 hours)
Altitude Gain: 4,100 meters / 13,451 feet at Mantalai
Detailed Plan
- Ascend towards Mantalai Lake, the source of the Parvati River.
- The trail becomes more challenging with moraines and boulder fields.
- Set up camp near the sacred Mantalai Lake.
- Overnight stay in tents.
Overview
Trek Distance: 10 km (approx. 7-8 hours)
Altitude Gain: 4,940 meters / 16,207 feet at Parvati Base Camp
Detailed Plan
- A strenuous day involving steep climbs and traversing glaciers.
- Reach the Parvati Base Camp, preparing for the pass crossing the next day.
- Overnight stay in tents.
Overview
Trek Distance: 12 km (approx. 8-9 hours)
Highest Altitude: 5,319 meters / 17,451 feet at Pin Parvati Pass
Ending Altitude: 4,400 meters / 14,436 feet at Pin Base Camp
Detailed Plan
- Begin early to cross the Pin Parvati Pass, the highest point of the trek.
- The ascent is challenging with steep inclines, snowfields, and crevasses.
- Reach the top and witness breathtaking views of the Parvati and Pin Valleys.
- Descend towards Pin Base Camp in Spiti’s cold desert landscape.
- Overnight stay in tents.
Overview
Trek Distance: 15 km (approx. 6-7 hours)
Ending Altitude: 3,810 meters / 12,500 feet at Mudh
Detailed Plan
- Trek through barren, yet stunning landscapes of Spiti Valley.
- Arrive at Mudh, a remote village with traditional Spitian houses.
- Overnight stay in a homestay or guesthouse.
Overview
Drive Distance: 50 km (approx. 2-3 hours)
Ending Altitude: 3,800 meters / 12,467 feet at Kaza
Detailed Plan
- Drive from Mudh to Kaza, the capital of Spiti Valley.
- Spend the day exploring Kaza’s monasteries and local markets.
- Overnight stay in a hotel or guesthouse.
Overview
Drive Distance: 200 km (approx. 8-9 hours)
Detailed Plan
- Early morning drive from Kaza to Manali via the Atal Tunnel or Kunzum Pass, depending on the season.
- Arrive in Manali by late evening, concluding the trek.
Important Notes
- Best Time to Visit: The ideal trekking season is from July to September when the snow has melted.
- Difficulty Level: Very Difficult – recommended for experienced trekkers due to high altitude and glacier crossings.
- Weather Conditions: Temperatures range from -5°C to 20°C, with cold nights at high camps.
- Acclimatization: Essential due to the high altitude. A few days in Manali or Kaza before the trek can help.
- Permits: Inner Line Permits may be required for Spiti Valley, which can be arranged in Kaza.
- Eco-Friendly Trek: Follow the Leave No Trace principles – do not litter and respect local customs.
- Essential Gear: High-quality trekking shoes, warm layers, waterproof clothing, trekking poles, sunglasses, and a sleeping bag.
- Network Connectivity: No mobile networks beyond Barshaini. Satellite phones may work in some areas.
